No doubt about it: Key West is expensive. But despite its small size, Key West is packed with things to do and see — and some are even free. Here are a half dozen places to go where you’ll soak up Key West culture without opening your wallet.
Florida Keys
Historic Key West cemetery: A scenic stop that is full of stories
The cemetery in Key West is a lot like the city itself: quirky, crowded, colorful and full of history. The site has a forlorn air and one could even consider it spooky. Take a walking tour and discover fascinating stories of Key West and its people.
Key West butterfly garden: Zen-like Key West attraction
The Key West Butterfly Conservatory is the most peaceful place in crazy, clamorous Key West. When you’re ready for a Zen moment, go here. But read these tips first.
Bahia Honda State Park: Nice beach, but historic bridge is the star
With the best beach in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda is a popular stop. But don’t miss the real star — the historic bridge. The park is also tops for camping and its cabins, though you have to plan way way ahead for that.
Tiki bars you’ll love in the Florida Keys
If you want to savor the flavor of the Florida Keys, spend a little time at a tiki bar. Our favorites profiled here are unpretentious waterfront spots where you’ll get good fresh fish, fried everything and a big serving of Keys atmosphere.
Robbie’s Marina: Feed the tarpon; it’s best cheap fun you can find in the Keys
Robbie’s Marina is a don’t-miss stop as you drive through the Florida Keys. Dozens of tarpon, some more than 6 feet long, gather at the dock and lunge for fish from visitors. The restaurant there, the Hungry Tarpon, is highly recommended , too.
Florida Keys: No Name Pub worth finding on Big Pine Key
No Name Pub has been around since the 1930s, and it looks like it. It offers tasty food in a historic building, but what makes this the king of Funky Florida is the decor: $90,000 (some say) stapled to the walls and ceiling.
Alabama Jack’s: Classic way to start a trip to Florida Keys
Stopping at Alabama Jack’s, a fish shack and dive bar on a remote road between Homestead and Key Largo, has been the classic way to start a Keys trip for decades. We revisited the open-air waterfront spot recently, and we’re happy to say: It’s as shabby and atmospheric as ever.
Key West Seaport: One of the best scenic walks in Key West
Many people miss it, sticking to Duval Street, but one of the most scenic strolls in Key West — and a top freebie — is the harbor walk along Key West Bight, also known as the Historic Key West Seaport.
Key Largo: African Queen boat is for Bogart fans
They don’t make movies like “African Queen” any more — and they don’t make boats like the African Queen either. If your dream was to sit where Humphrey Bogart or Katherine Hepburn sat in the classic 1951 movie, then head to Key Largo. Here are the details you need to plan a visit.
